Multi-Head Power Tool Mode Switching via Detection Signals

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Solution Overview

Problem

Double-head or multi-head power tools are complex to operate due to the need to frequently change working accessories and switch output heads to match the required working mode, leading to inconvenient operations and low use efficiency.

Innovation Solution

A power tool with at least two output heads that includes an output head detection assembly, a function switching unit, and a controller to detect and switch the working mode of the output head at the working position without physically changing the output heads, using detection signals and mode switching signals to associate the correct working mode with the output head.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Adaptability or versatility

If output heads are frequently switched to match required working mode, then the power tool can adapt to different functions, but the operation complexity increases and use efficiency decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveadaptability to different functionsVSAvoidoperation complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSEase of operation

Solution Approach 1:

The patent implements multi-functionality by enabling a single output head to perform multiple working modes (drilling, screwdriving, impacting) through controller-based mode switching. The controller receives mode switching signals and adjusts the motor's working parameters accordingly, allowing one output head to replace multiple specialized heads, thereby improving adaptability while simplifying operations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies dynamics by making the working mode of the output head changeable and adjustable during operation. The controller dynamically switches between different working modes based on mode switching signals, and the motor's rotational speed and torque are dynamically adjusted to match the required mode, enabling flexible adaptation without physical head changes.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

2Adaptability or versatility

If working accessories are frequently changed to match required working mode, then the power tool can perform different functions, but the operation time increases and productivity decreases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctionality adaptationVSAvoiduse efficiency
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSProductivity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent enables one output head to perform multiple functions (drilling, screwdriving, impacting) through electronic control. The controller switches working modes by adjusting motor parameters, eliminating the need to change physical accessories for different functions. This reduces accessory change time and improves productivity while maintaining full functional adaptability.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical system of physically changing output heads and accessories with an electronic control system. The controller uses electrical signals to switch working modes and adjust motor output, substituting mechanical head changes with electronic parameter adjustments, thereby reducing operation time and improving efficiency.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

3Reliability

If output heads are switched to ensure correct working mode correspondence, then the power tool operates accurately, but the number of switching operations increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemode correspondence accuracyVSAvoidswitching time
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of time

Solution Approach 1:

The patent makes the output head universal by enabling it to perform multiple working modes through controller control. Since one output head can fulfill multiple functions, there is no need to switch heads to ensure mode correspondence. The controller ensures accurate mode correspondence through electronic parameter adjustment, eliminating head switching operations and reducing time loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

4Adaptability or versatility

If multiple output heads are provided for different functions, then the power tool achieves versatility, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvefunctional diversityVSAvoidstructure complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent uses a single output head designed to handle multiple working modes (drilling, screwdriving, impacting) through electronic control. The controller adjusts motor parameters to achieve different functions, eliminating the need for multiple specialized output heads. This reduces structural complexity while maintaining full functional diversity.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent merges multiple functions into a single output head by combining drilling, screwdriving, and impacting capabilities in one head design. The controller integrates control of all these functions through a unified control system, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying the overall device structure while maintaining functional versatility.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

Applied Scientific Principles

This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.

Function Achieved in This Case

This solution simplifies operations by allowing the working mode to be switched without changing output heads, ensuring the output head at the working position accurately corresponds to the required mode, thereby improving use efficiency and convenience.

Implementation Method 1

the detection element comprises a Hall sensor, a light sensor or a proximity sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectHall sensor detection: Hall Effect

Implementation Method 2

the detection element comprises a Hall sensor, a light sensor or a proximity sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectLight sensor detection: Photoelectric Effect

Implementation Method 3

the detection element comprises a Hall sensor, a light sensor or a proximity sensor

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectProximity sensor detection:

Data Source

PatentUS20240083006A1Power tool and control method thereof
Publication Date: 2024.03.14 POSITEC POWER TOOLS (SUZHOU) CO LTD
  • US20240083006A1 patent drawing
  • US20240083006A1 patent drawing
  • US20240083006A1 patent drawing

AI summary

This application relates to the field of power tool technologies, and specifically discloses a power tool and a control method thereof. The tool includes at least two output heads. An output head detection assembly can detect a position of an output head at a working position and generate a detection signal. The detection signal is associated with a working mode of the output head. A function switching unit generates, in response to external triggering, a mode switching signal used for indicating to switch the working mode of the output head at the working position. A controller is connected to the output head detection assembly and the function switching unit, switches the working mode of the output head at the working position in response to the mode switching signal, and associates the detection signal with a working mode after switching.